Introduction​

NIJ has developed the
Safety, Health, and Wellness Strategic Research Plan ​to describe the current and​ projected efforts of NIJ to promote the safety, health, and wellness of individuals affected by, or employed within, the criminal justice system. This document will be of interest to researchers (academic, governmental, and industry); federal, state, local, and international government partners; and justice policymakers and practitioner communities. Findings from activities that fall within this strategic research plan will be disseminated among these constituents ​and partners in ways designed to achieve the greatest impact.​

NIJ's Safety, Health, and Wellness Mission:

NIJ’s mission for safety, health, and wellness is dedicated to the development of knowledge and tools to promote safety, health, and wellness for law enforcement officers, individuals under the supervision of the criminal justice system, as well as those in contact with or affected directly or indirectly by the criminal justice system.

A Call for Collaboration

The research directions included within this strategic research plan intentionally span many scientific disciplines. The breadth of research is driven by the magnitude of questions that need to be addressed within the criminal justice system. NIJ envisions that the research resulting from this agenda will require both interdisciplinary collaboration and partnerships between traditional researchers and the practitioner community. Finally, mirroring the need for collaboration among researchers, NIJ will seek partnerships with other federal agencies and institutions that support research relevant to criminal justice applications. These partnerships should include: co-sponsoring research awards; convening meetings to bring key players together; and providing criminal justice system expertise to discussions and meetings pertaining to safety, health, and wellness.

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Strategic Priority I: Promote Research to Improve Safety Within the Criminal Justice System

NIJ is committed to building a knowledge base focused on the safety of individuals employed within criminal justice occupations, as well as individuals under the supervision of the criminal justice system, and members of the public as they interact with the system.

Background

The National Institute of Justice has played an ongoing role in the development o​f equipment, standards, technologies, and practices to improve officer safety within the criminal justice system. These investments have included the development of ballistic vests, studies of in-vehicle safety, and the evaluation of less-lethal technologies to increase police and public safety. NIJ will continue to promote research to further police and correctional officer safety in their unique work environment. Additionally, NIJ will continue its focus on examining the safety of incarcerated populations and the public as they interact with the criminal justice system.

Objectives

The objectives supporting Strategic Priority I build on strengths that NIJ has developed over decades. NIJ has formed strong partnerships with research organizations throughout the United States, which support research on safety in criminal justice occupations, and for individuals who come in contact with the criminal justice system. NIJ will continue to work with partners, including other federal agencies, to develop improved technologies, standards, and practices to support safety. NIJ will continue to assess the safety needs within criminal justice settings, as well as opportunities for improvement.

Spotlight on Two Ongoing Research Projects

NIJ remains focused on​ studying health and wellness for those employed within the criminal justice system, individuals under the supervision of the criminal justice system, and those affected by the system. The science and technology investments in health and wellness are divided into two areas: physical health and mental health.

Background

In 2014, the Taskforce on 21st Century Policing outlined a broad agenda to address a spectrum of safety and wellness needs in policing.

The “bulletproof cop” does not exist. The officers who protect us must also be protected against incapacitating physical, mental, and emotional health problems, as well as against the hazards of their job. Their wellness and safety are crucial for them, their colleagues and their agencies, as well as the well-being of the communities.

While this report had a specific focus on police officers and the communities they serve, the sentiment of wellness within the report is equally relevant for those who work in other parts of the criminal justice system, as well as those in custody. A comprehensive approach to health and wellness issues throughout the criminal justice system will improve the performance and wellness of each sector of justice and can provide a more coordinated response to the health risks and concerns of the communities they serve.

Objectives

The objectives supporting Strategic Priority II will build on prior research investments and collaborations and focus on health and wellness for both officers and individuals in custody. NIJ is specifically interested in understanding and improving the physical and mental health outcomes for those who are employed by, under the supervision of, or interact with the criminal justice system. Additionally, the focus on stress, trauma, and suicide and self-harm prevention cuts across demographic areas highlighting the importance of promoting research of these topics within the criminal justice system.

Related to individuals working in criminal justice occupations

Objective II.1: Promote research to improve the physical and mental health of individuals working in the criminal justice system.